As U.S. firms continue to reshore, new supply chain opportunities are arising for both shippers and providers. Manufacturers and their logistics service providers should understand the reshoring trend and the resources that are available to assist them with both the reshoring decision and process.

Oregon-based manufacturer Blount International was bleeding money from leaks all across its supply chain. It found that the correct application of the right data management technology provided and maintained by the right partner was the solution to the problem.

With demand for speed and convenience at an all-time high, companies must streamline and speed up order fulfillment. Technology that allows sales reps and customers to rapidly write orders and submit them almost instantaneously for fulfillment is a major competitive advantage.

If there’s one lesson that we’ve learned from fine bourbon or whiskey, it’s that good things come to those who wait. Distilleries know this better than anyone. But when it’s time to get that product out the door and in the hands of distributors, the last thing a distiller wants to do is wait.

Driven by the realization that business and society can no longer intersect at the crossroads of profits first and society second, business is embracing a new order that puts the interests of society on a level that is at par with the interests of business. This has prompted a closer look at the supply chain and an increased emphasis on sustainable sourcing.

Contract manufacturer Apex International had seen its growth halt as it struggled to deliver products on time and provide sufficient quality control. With the help of Simpler Consulting, Apex adopted Lean management principles to transform its culture and return the company to a path of growth.

U.S. beef supply chain participants form partnership to improve sustainability; Manufacturers and retailers fail to adopt best-in-class processes and technology to address global complexities; Online retailers need to rethink how they align their distribution networks; Spot market rates dip seasonally as West Coast volumes catch up; Staples and Syracuse University partner to drive new research and innovation.

North America’s manufacturing sector is on an upward trajectory. However, a shortage of young talent, compounded by Baby Boomers’ negative perceptions about Millennials, could impact its continued expansion, according to ThomasNet’s latest Industry Market Barometer® (IMB) research.

When a merger required Nature’s Way to consolidate distribution facilities, it called on the services of system supplier The Numina Group for a new design and technologies. Today, the facility successfully distributes products to customers in 50 states, and overseas through five supply chain channels.

Hunter Harrison documents the culture change that has contributed to Canadian Pacific’s rail renaissance; Global companies more concerned about climate risk than emissions reductions; Deadline for new ISO17712:2013 high-security seal standards is fast approaching; Lack of collaboration between supply chain and finance hurts the bottom line

An order management system from DF Young and Superior Technology helps Cintron Beverage Company boost inventory accuracy, fulfill orders easily and quickly, and track products throughout the supply chain.

An average distribution center generates or handles anywhere from 100 to 1,000 tons of solid waste each year that could be reduced, reused, or recycled. Emily P. Davis of Exel/DHL Supply Chain Americas outlines five keys for helping waste management and other sustainability programs succeed.

Production logistics can increase an operation’s efficiencies and save companies money by creating the right blend of technology, equipment, and disciplined processes to ensure materials get where the are needed to keep production flowing, writes Tom Stricker of HK Logistics.

As automotive production levels return to pre-recession levels, consistently delivering quality products has become one of the defining characteristics of successful carmakers and logistics service providers, writes J. Scot Sharland, Automotive Industry Action Group.

Protective reusable dunnage can take the place of single- or limited-use corrugated or wood filler to move pallets and products securely in an environmentally conscious manner, writes Paul Fitzgerald of Paylode Cargo Protection Systems.

Pharmaceuticals manufacturers face special supply chain challenges such as temperature control, security, chain of custody, and regulatory compliance, but successful strategies help deal with these issues.

Mexico-based automotive glassmaker Vitro Automotive opened a distribution center in the United States to serve Detroit automakers just-in-time requirements. Its long-time logistics service provider Evans Distribution Systems staffed the new DC for Vitro to ensure a quality workforce.

Achieving LEED certification begins with choosing energy-efficient lighting, using space to promote energy savings, and building with sustainable and recycled materials. Thomas Taylor of Vertegy offers more tips for getting your building LEED certified.

The time is right to bring overseas manufacturing back to the United States. U.S. entrepreneurs - and entrepreneurial companies - can domestically manufacture quality products, bring them to market as the low-cost producers, and yield a sustainable profitable business model, writes Elisha Tropper of Cambridge Security Seals.

While some organizations and industries may have operations that naturally lend themselves to sustainability efforts, all companies should be empowered to review their shipping and supply chain operations through the lens of sustainability.

Shifting perspectives on supply chain management, coupled with the realities of total landed cost, are driving manufacturers to weigh the benefits of flinging production operations in China back to the United States.

Shipping and logistics professionals facing stricter emissions regulations and rising diesel prices will have an opportunity to take control of their fleets and realize the fuel and cost savings selective catalytic reduction brings, writes Chad Dombroski of Yara North America.

Industrial property developers are cultivating greener distribution facilities and nurturing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards compliance. The bounty? A harvest of benefits for their tenants.

For shipping and receiving, there are three types of pallet programs: single-use or one-way, extended-use or buy/sell, and leasing or rental. Hillary Femal of IFCO Systems describes the uses and benefits of each type.

Is there a war on trucking? CSA 2010, cap and trade, and Hours of Service changes are challenging the ability of truckers to operate profitably in America, says Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo

Companies that combine the reduce, reuse, recycle mantra with the supply chain wisdom of managing costs and stamping out inefficiencies are developing reverse supply chains that help the Earth, the customer, and the bottom line.

Contract manufacturer Apex International had seen its growth halt as it struggled to deliver products on time and provide sufficient quality control. With the help of Simpler Consulting, Apex adopted Lean management principles to transform its culture and return the company to a path of growth.